GIANT Crest Flotrac Rear Suspension User Manual
- July 2, 2024
- GIANT
Table of Contents
Crest Flotrac Rear Suspension
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GIANT CREST FLOTRAC REAR SUSPENSION
Specifications
- Model: FLOTRAC LITE
- Eye-to-Eye Length: 165 mm
- Travel (Stroke): 45 mm
- Rebound Adjustability: Yes
- Low-Speed Compression: Open, Lockout Lite
- Compression Tune: Trail
- Max. Token Quantity: 1
- Mount Type: Trunnion
- E-Bike Compatibility: No
- Factory-Set Pressure: 100 PSI
- Weight: 280 g
Installation and Removal
CAUTION: Shock replacement requires basic
maintenance skills and tooling. If you’re new to this, have an
experienced mechanic overseeing the whole process. If in doubt,
consult an authorized GIANT or Liv retailer for assistance.
-
The bike should be in an upright position during the process.
It is ideal to have the bike fixed in a repair stand. To ease the
effort, temporarily remove the rear wheel and bottle cage. -
Before the process, clean the shock and the mounting area as
good as possible. -
Use masking tape or protective foams around the seat tube to
avoid unwanted interference and surface damage. -
If aligning the mounting holes with hardware present
difficulties, or the assembly is stubborn to remove, use a shock
pump to gradually release all air so you can manipulate the
connection of the assembly.
Installation Steps
-
Start with the lower mount. Place washers (shown in purple)
between the bearings from the lower linkage and the downtube mount.
1 washer each side. For bikes with FlexPoint technology, you might
need to lightly budge the chain stay away to yield a slot for
washers to pass through. -
Attach both shock lower eyelet spacers (shown in blue) to the
inner side of the mount. Then place the shock lower eyelet so it’s
sandwiched by spacers. Insert the lower bolt from the non-drive
side. A few mild taps with a plastic hammer will ease the task.
Thread the fixing nut from the drive side. Tighten to specified
torque. -
Attach both shock upper eyelet washers (shown in purple).
FAQ
Q: How do I adjust the rebound on my GIANT CREST FLOTRAC
shock?
A: To adjust the rebound on your shock, locate the rebound
adjuster knob and turn it clockwise to increase rebound damping or
counterclockwise to decrease damping. Make small adjustments and
test your shock on a trail to find the optimal setting for your
riding style.
Q: Can I use the GIANT CREST FLOTRAC shock on an e-bike?
A: The FLOTRAC LITE model is not compatible with e-bikes, while
the FLOTRAC model is also not designed for e-bikes. It is
recommended to check with GIANT or Liv retailers for specific
e-bike shock options.
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GIANT CREST FLOTRAC REAR SUSPENSION
USER MANUAL
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CONTENTS
GIANT CREST FLOTRAC USER MANUAL
1. INTRODUCTION ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 2 2. PARTS
LIST………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3 3. SPECIFICATIONS
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4 4. INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL
………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
Installation …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5 Removal
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6 5. ADJUSTMENT
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7 Using Suspension Pump
………………………………………………………………………………………………… 7 Compression
Lever………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 8 Rebound Adjuster Knob
…………………………………………………………………………………………………. 9 6. INITIAL SETUP THE EASY WAY
……………………………………………………………………………………….. 11 7. INITIAL SETUP THE GENERAL
WAY…………………………………………………………………………………. 12 8. TOKEN INSTALLATION
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 15 9. SERVICE
INTERVAL…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 18 10. GIANT LIMITED
WARRANTY……………………………………………………………………………………………. 19
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1. INTRODUCTION
Congratulations with the purchase of your new GIANT CREST FLOTRAC shock. GIANT
CREST FLOTRAC shocks are specially designed and tuned to work seamlessly with
our proven MAESTRO and FlexPoint suspension technologies.
GIANT CREST FLOTRAC shocks feature modern air spring design with riding
efficiency in mind, plus a wide range of rebound adjustment. It is essentially
a package to tackle most trail challenges, while staying user friendly to be
custom-tuned.
Lightweight while robust, a GIANT CREST FLOTRAC shock is your optimal weapon
of choice for ploughing down the most tricky trails.
CAUTION Please read the instructions thoroughly before installing and using
this shock. Failure to follow the instructions may result in serious injury or
death. Adjusting shock rebound and/or compression mode, also as known as lock-
out, during the ride
can affect the handling, or cause the loss of control in the worst scenario.
Before hitting your local trail, please familiarize yourself with operating
the adjustment on-the-fly in a safe, manageable surrounding and speed. Never
ride with a GIANT CREST FLOTRAC shock that is modified. Any modifications will
void the warranty. Loose, over-tightened, damaged, or worn parts may cause
unexpected malfunction. Periodically check the shock for wear or damage. If
there are any indications of major wear, cracks, or dents shown on the
exterior or any of its parts, stop riding immediately and find an authorized
GIANT or Liv retailer for inspection, repair or replacement. Please check that
all fasteners on the GIANT CREST FLOTRAC shock have been properly fastened
within the recommended torque settings before you ride.
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2. PARTS LIST
Air valve Air can Travel indicator ring Damper shaft Rebound adjuster knob
Compression lever Token Travel reducer Bottom-out washer Bottom-out bumper
GIANT CREST FLOTRAC USER MANUAL
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3. SPECIFICATIONS
GIANT CREST FLOTRAC USER MANUAL
MODEL EYE-TO-EYE LENGTH TRAVEL (STROKE) REBOUND AJUSTABILITY LOW SPEED COMPRESSION COMPRESSION TUNE MAX. TOKEN QUANTITY MOUNT TYPE E-BIKE COMPATIBILITY FACTORY-SET PRESSURE WEIGHT (G)
FLOTRAC LITE 165 MM 45 MM YES OPEN, LOCKOUT LITE 1 TRUNNION NO 100 PSI 280
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FLOTRAC 185 MM 50 MM YES OPEN, MEDIUM, LOCKOUT TRAIL 1 TRUNNION NO 200 PSI 290
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GIANT CREST FLOTRAC USER MANUAL
4. INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL
! CAUTION Shock replacement requires basic maintenance skills and tooling. If
you’re new to this, have an
experienced mechanic overseeing the whole process. If in doubt, consult an
authorized GIANT or Liv retailer for assistance.
The bike should be in an upright position during the process. It is ideal to have the bike fixed in a repair stand. To ease the effort, temporally remove rear wheel and bottle cage.
Before the process, clean the shock and the mounting area as good as possible
Use masking tape or protective foams around the seat tube to avoid unwanted interference and surface damage.
If aligning the mounting holes with hardware present
difficulties, or the assembly is stubborn to remove, use a shock pump to gradually release all air so you can
A
manipulate the connection of assembly.
Installation
A. Start with the lower mount, Place washers (shown in purple)
between the bearings from lower linkage and the downtube
mount. 1 washer each side. For bikes with FlexPoint
technology, you might need to lightly budge the chain stay
B
away to yield a slot for washers to pass through.
B. Attach both shock lower eyelet spacers (shown in blue) to the inner side of mount. Then place the shock lower eyelet so it’s sandwiched by spacers. Insert the lower bolt from the non-drive side. A few mild taps with a plastic hammer will ease the task. Thread the fixing nut from the drive side. Tighten to specified torque.
C. Attach both shock upper eyelet washers (shown in purple)
C
to the inner side of upper linkage. Thread-in corresponding
pivot bolts and tighten to torque.
D. Use a shock pump to gradually release all air. Compress the shock by pushing the rear triangle a few times to check if there are any clearance issues.
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GIANT CREST FLOTRAC USER MANUAL
! CAUTION
Ensure all fasteners are properly torqued. Torque
D
information are mostly etched on the fastener. If said
information cannot be found, please consult an
authorized GIANT or Liv retailer for assistance.
Do not ride if any clearance issue is found. Please consult an authorized GIANT or Liv retailer for assistance.
Removal
A. Start from the upper mount. Loosen and remove both pivot bolts from each
side of upper eyelet. Keep the washers in a safe place.
B. To remove the lower fasteners, use either a 19mm wrench, an adjustable
wrench, or a plier wrench to hold the fixing nut, undo the lower bolt with a
8mm hex key. You might need to unweight the rear triangle for easier
disassembly. Keep those washers and spacers in a safe place.
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5. ADJUSTMENT Using Suspension Pump
A
B
GIANT CREST FLOTRAC USER MANUAL
C
Modern bicycle suspension utilized air-type spring to suit a wide range of
rider weight and riding styles. A specific suspension pump, also known as
shock pump is required.
A. Set the compression lever to the open position. Unthread and remove the
valve cap.
B. Attach the pump connection securely. A current pressure readout is shown.
Consult the recommended pressure chart or follow the setup procedure in the
latter chapter to get a base pressure setting. If the pressure increases or
decreases over 50 PSI, compress the shock for 5 times, each time about 50% of
travel, between each pressure change. This is to balance the air chamber.
C. Once the target pressure is reached, compress the shock for another 5
times, each time about 50% of travel. Check the pressure. Remove the pump
connection and replace the valve cap at finger-tight.
! WARNING Do not exceed the maximum pressure in any situation. GIANT CREST
FLOTRAC shocks have a
maximum pressure of 300 PSI. Over-pressurizing the shock can lead to
catastrophic failure and void the warranty. Do not ride with pressure less
than 50 PSI. A unusual low pressure in the shock can affect bike geometry,
suspension function and bikes handling will also be compromised. If a proper
SAG is not able to be reached either at maximum and minimum pressure, please
consult your local Giant authorized retailer.
! CAUTION Failure to balance the air chambers (compress the shock a few times)
may lead to false reading
of pressure, causing incorrect setup. Valve cap plays an important role in
long-term airtight performance. Always have a cap fitted,
finger-tight is sufficient.
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GIANT CREST FLOTRAC USER MANUAL
NOTE GIANT CREST FLOTRAC shocks come with a factory-set pressure of 200 PSI.
Whereas the LITE
version comes with 100 PSI. Each time the shock pump connection is attached,
the overall volume of air chamber is
temperately expanded and causing a minor pressure drop of a few PSI. This is
absolutely normal. Once the target pressure is reached and pump connection is
removed. A swift hissing sound is heard which is caused by the remaining air
that escapes from the pump. This is not a sign of pressure change from the
shock.
Compression Lever
A – OPEN
B MEDIUM*
C – LOCKOUT
*Not featured in LITE version.
The compression lever, oftentimes called as a lockout lever, is a handy
feature to suit different riding terrain. It is designed to be easily switched
between modes during the ride.
A. OPEN mode gives you full capability of the shock to absorb any coming
impact, big or small.
B. MEDIUM mode is ideal for riding flat trail, asphalt or most pavement. The
firmer action yields a balance of both pedal efficiency and shock absorption.
C. LOCKOUT mode, as the name suggests, it restricts the internal flow which
limit the shock telescopic action. A full power transmission is then achieved.
This mode is ideal to be ridden in most climbing situation, or the last sprint
before the finish line.
! CAUTION The compression lever can be easily switched by your finger force.
It also gives a responsive
index feedback between modes. Please consult your local Giant authorized
retailer if a stubborn lever, or a floppy switch is present.
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Although it is designed to be easily switched during the ride, the full
control of handling should be maintained. Only operate the switch when riding
in a stable pace.
It is best to set to OPEN mode if you are unfamiliar with the bike, and/or the
trail characteristics. LOCKOUT mode should be avoided if drops or any major
impacts are expected. If a major impact is applied to the shock while in
LOCKOUT mode, the shock will temporally
override the LOCKOUT and absorb the impact. This is a safety feature called
Blowoff. The shock will remain in LOCKOUT mode afterwards unless it’s been
switched-off.
NOTE GIANT CREST FLOTRAC LITE shocks only come with OPEN mode and LOCKOUT
mode. When in LOCKOUT mode, the compression lever may present a little free
play. This is by design.
Rebound Adjuster Knob
A – Faster
B – Slower
The Rebound Adjuster Knob is a round knob behind the Compression Lever. It
controls the internal valve to further control the return speed of the shock.
Optimal suspension performance is never without proper rebound adjustment. A.
To set the rebound FASTER, turn the knob COUNTER-CLOCKWISE B. To set the
rebound SLOWER, turn the knob CLOCKWISE. The initial rebound adjustment
oftentimes requires counting clicks from a fully closed state, fully closed
means that it is needed to turn it clockwise until it stops. Detailed
procedure will be described in the latter chapter.
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GIANT CREST FLOTRAC USER MANUAL
MODEL
FLOTRAC LITE
FLOTRAC
REBOUND*
7 CLICKS
15 CLICKS
*Due to manufacturing tolerance, the index of rebound may be 1 click more, or less. It doesn’t affect its
function.
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6. INITIAL SETUP THE EASY WAY
NOTE This section is dedicated for LITE version which is specially designed
for youth dual-suspension
bikes. For other versions, please refer to the next chapter INITIAL SETUP
THE GENERAL WAY.
Quick reference from fork sticker
GIANT CREST FLOTRAC LITE shocks come with a suspension system setup in mind. A
quick reference can be found on rear side on the left leg of a Crest fork.
In case you’re unfamiliar about how to set up the shock, This information
gives a base setting which will be suitable for most riders from beginners to
veterans.
Here are some simple steps.
1. Find the row that shows your rider weight. Be mindful, the rider weight
stands for your body weight plus all your riding gears including helmet,
backpack, protective pads and cycling shoes.
2. Set the air pressure to the corresponding pressure. Follow the procedure
listed in the ADJUSTMENT – Using Suspension Pump section. This pressure should
give you a proper 30% SAG.
3. Set the rebound click according to the corresponding clicks count.
Remember the index starts from the rebound is turned fully clockwise.
4. Your shock is now set. Go for a few rides.
NOTE Remember, you can always trial and error with these adjustment to suit
your riding style, terrain
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and trail features. It is recommended to change gradually between rides, For
example, 5 PSI per pressure change, 1~2 clicks per rebound change.
7. INITIAL SETUP THE GENERAL WAY SETTING SAG
New CREST FLOTRAC shocks come with a factory-set pressure. Please check
SPECIFICATIONS chapter for this information.
Modern trail bikes are often recommended with 30% of SAG; however, it is also
OK to adjust the SAG with 5% more, or 5% less.
1. Position the bike next to a wall. Set yourself on the bike with all your
riding gears, including helmet, backpack, protective pads and cycling shoes.
2. Compress the shock a few times with your body weight, then stay in a
neutral position while leaning against the wall.
3. Without further compressing the shock, carefully pull the travel indicator
ring up until it touches the air can.
4. Carefully dismount without compressing the shock. Measure the distance
between the air can and the travel indicator ring.
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5. This distance divided by the shock travel in percentage is your Current
SAG.
6. Current SAG is less than 30% Decrease air pressure and repeat from step 1.
Current SAG is more than 30% Increase air pressure and repeat from step 1.
7. Repeat a few times with 10~20 PSI per change.
8. Once you have reached proper SAG setting, proceed with rebound setting.
SETTING REBOUND
A basic way to set rebound is called bracketing. Bracketing requires a few
test rides and follow-up adjustment.
1. Refer to REBOUND ADJUSTER KNOB chapter. Set the rebound at the half way point.
2. Find a local trail that you’re familiar with. Pick a section that is flat or slightly descending. This
section should include some basic trail features and flowy to ride.
3. Ride this section with a speed that is manageable with your skill level.
4. Feel the performance of how the shock dealing the terrain.
Shock sinks down over the ride:
Increase rebound speed by 4 clicks* counter-clockwise
The bike “pogosticks” or bounces:
Decrease rebound speed by 4 clicks* clockwise
*For LITE version. please turn 2 clicks.
5. Ride the same section with the new setting. Repeat step 3 and 4; however this time dial it with 2
clicks increment of adjustment.
6. Repeat until satisfactory.
! CAUTION Please note above setting procedure is to set a base setting. If the
trail features/terrain change
dramatically, the rebound setting should to be changed accordingly. Before
attempting any unfamiliar trail with more technical sections, major drops, it
is
recommended to increase the rebound by 2 clicks and fine-tune it afterwards.
NOTE Once you have the pressure and rebound setting dialed, take a note in
your cycling computer,
cycling APP for future reference.
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Or simply note it down here.
DATE
TRAIL
GIANT CREST FLOTRAC USER MANUAL
PRESSURE (PSI)
REBOUND( CLICKS)
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8. TOKEN INSTALLATION
WARNING Token installation involves partial air can removal. Always release
all air by using a shock pump. Attempt on removing a pressurized air can lead
to serious injury or death.
Token is specifically designed to tune the shock performance. Use only GIANT
CREST FLOTRAC genuine parts.
The token comes with a variety of volume. Do not use more than 1 token.
Improper token setup can lead to unwanted noise or malfunction. If in doubt,
please consult an authorized Giant or Liv retailer for assistance.
NOTE Your shock may have a token factory-fitted already. After changing the
token, you might need to reset the SAG.
Modern suspension utilize air pressure to be light-weight and versatile to
suit most range of rider weights. To sweeten the performance, a specially
designed “token” can be added inside. This token modifies the air volume and
therefore change the characteristics at the end stroke. We also refer it as
bottom-out performance.
Large
Medium
Small
To make the best of the shock, we should use full travel without a harsh
bottom-out feedback. The travel indicator ring shows how much travel you use
during the ride. When do we use the end stroke? Most likely when a significant
drop is encountered, for example a drop deeper than half of the wheel
diameter. A. Your shock constantly bottoms-out, or a harsh bottoms-out feeling
after the drop, although SAG and
rebound are set correctly.
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You can consider adding a token, or replacing the installed token with a larger volume token to improve it. B. Your shock rarely bottoms-out. No matter how deep the drop you ride. You can consider removing the token, or replacing the installed token with a smaller volume token to improve it.
1
2
3
4
5
6
Token installation is fairly easy as following steps. 1. Clean up the shock
and its surrounding area. Use a shock pump to gradually release all air
pressure. Use both hands to grab the air can firmly, turn it clockwise (from
top-view) all the way to disconnect the air can from upper unit. Pull it down
just enough to have access to the bottom-out bumper and washer. 2. Temporally
pull down the bottom-out bumper, washer and travel reducer (if present) just
enough so you can access the token area.
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3. Turn the existing token (if present) clockwise until it hits a stop, then
pull it out from the upper eyelet.
4. The token is directional. Make sure the side with GIANT logo is facing
towards you. To fit the desired token, align the ball bearings with the
groove. Push it onto the groove and turn it counter-clockwise until it hits a
stop.
5. Push the travel reducer, the washer and the bumper back into place. 6.
Pull the air can upwards and thread it into the upper unit. Thread until the
sticker is facing
forward. 7. Pump it up to your original pressure and go for a ride.
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9. SERVICE INTERVAL
WARNING All suspension service must be performed by a Giant or Liv authorized
retailer or service center.
Function or quality issues caused by malpractice from non-authorized party is
not covered in warranty.
When cleaning the shock, avoid solvent-based cleaner. Avoid using pressurized
water jet.
NOTE When the shock is new or has just been serviced, a minor seepage from the
air can may present.
Simply wipe it off clean. This initial seepage is normal and should be gone
after first few rides.
Suspension components often utilize lightweight alloy on sliding parts, once
the surface treatment is worn, it is worn. Periodical service should be
considered as a preventive measure which keeps the shock in tip top condition.
To ensure long-lasting performance, please consult your local Giant or Liv
authorized retailer for maintenance advice.
Below chart is a basic recommendation. For riders who ride in extreme
condition or race events a shorter service interval should be considered.
Action
Pre/Post each ride
50-hr of ride
150-hr of ride
General wipe down or clean the
exterior with mild soap. Inspect for
obvious crack or leakage.
Perform 50-hour service including air can service and seal replacement.
Perform 150-hour service including full
rebuild, damper oil change and
nitrogen recharge.
You can note down your ride history here to easily back-track your shock usage.
DATE
TRAIL
RIDE HOURS
NOTE
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10. GIANT LIMITED WARRANTY
Giant guarantees the GIANT CREST FLOTRAC rear shock for a period of two (2)
years from the date of purchase for the original owner only.
REQUIRED ASSEMBLY WHEN PURCHASED This warranty applies only to this product
when purchased new from an Authorized Giant or Liv Dealer and assembled by
that dealer at the time of purchase.
LIMITED REMEDY Unless otherwise provided, the sole remedy under the above
warranty, or any implied warranty, is limited to the replacement of defective
parts with those of equal or greater value at the sole discretion of Giant.
This warranty extends from the date of purchase, applies only to the original
owner, and is not transferable. In no event shall Giant be responsible for any
direct, incidental or consequential damages, including, without limitation,
damages for personal injury, property damage, or economic losses, whether
based on contract, warranty, negligence, product liability, or any other
theory.
EXCLUSIONS The above warranty, or any implied warranty, does not cover:
Normal wear and tear on parts in situations where there are no assembly or
material defects.
Products serviced by other than an authorized Giant dealer.
Modifications of the product from its original condition.
Use of this product for abnormal, competition and/or commercial activities or
for purposes other than those for which this product was designed.
Damage caused by failing to follow the instructions in this manual..
Paint, finish and decal damage resulting from taking part in competitions,
jumping, downhill and/or training for such activities or events or as a result
of exposing the product to, or operating the product in, severe conditions or
climates.
Labor charges for part replacement or changeover.
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Except as is provided by this warranty and subject to all additional
warranties, Giant and its employees and agents shall not be liable for any
loss or damage whatsoever (including incidental and consequential loss or
damage caused by negligence or default) arising from or concerning any Giant
product.
Giant makes no other warranties, express or implied. All implied warranties,
including the warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose are limited in duration to that of the express warranties stated
above.
Any claim against this warranty must be made through an Authorized Giant
Dealer or distributor. The purchase receipt or other proof of the date of
purchase is required before a warranty claim may be processed. Claims made
outside the country of purchase may be subject to fees and additional
restrictions. Warranty duration and details may differ by country. This
warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights
which may vary from place to place. THIS WARRANTY DOES NOT AFFECT YOUR
STATUTORY RIGHTS.
SERVICE CENTERS
To find a Giant retailer near you, please visit: www.giant-bicycles.com
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